Road Haulage Market

Market Overview: 

The global road haulage market size reached US$ 7.7 Billion in 2023. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach US$ 12.2 Billion by 2032, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 5.2% during 2024-2032. The burgeoning eCommerce sector requiring long distance shipment transportation, the rise of on-demand transportation services, and continual advancements in trucking equipment such as automated loading and unloading systems are some of the factors that are propelling the market.

Road haulage refers to the transportation of goods and materials over land by means of trucks, lorries, and other heavy-duty vehicles. An integral component of the global supply chain, road haulage services play a pivotal role in connecting manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers to consumers, facilitating the smooth flow of commodities from production sites to distribution centers and retail outlets. Characteristics that define this market include its highly competitive nature, characterized by numerous small and large players, along with a constant striving for operational efficiency and route optimization. The working mechanism of road haulage involves a complex network of logistics, from scheduling deliveries and mapping routes, to maintaining a fleet of vehicles and managing fuel consumption.

The global market is majorly driven by the burgeoning eCommerce sector requiring long distance shipment transportation. In line with this, the ongoing urbanization and industrialization, particularly in emerging economies, is driving the need for robust logistics networks. Moreover, continual  advancements in trucking equipment such as automated loading and unloading systems along with innovations including fleet management software and GPS tracking are favoring the growth of the market. In addition to this, favorable government initiatives to improve infrastructural facilities including highways and bridges are also stimulating market growth. Furthermore, the augmenting demand for temperature-controlled logistics, especially in the pharmaceutical and food & beverage sectors, is propelling the demand for specialized haulage services. Apart from this, the rising focus on sustainability is resulting in a higher adoption of electric and hybrid trucks, thereby contributing to the market.

Road Haulage Market Trends/Drivers:

Liberalization of trade agreements and increasing cross-border trade

The liberalization of trade agreements is one of the most crucial driving forces for the global market. As countries worldwide sign new trade agreements and relax existing trade barriers, cross-border commerce is significantly enhanced. These changes have increased the import and export of goods and services, further intensifying the demand for various haulage services. In addition, with countries focusing on developing infrastructure, the ease of transportation has increased substantially. Improved road networks, alongside the liberalization of trade, have made it easier for haulage companies to expand their services across borders, ensuring faster and more efficient delivery of goods. Also, it is important to note that an open and liberal global trade system encourages competition, innovation, and specialization, all of which stimulate the market.

Rising on-demand transportation services

The advent of digital platforms has resulted in the rise of on-demand transportation services, a trend that significantly contributes to the growth of the market on the global level. Digital transformation has enabled the logistics industry to reach new levels of efficiency and effectiveness. Customers now prefer the use of digital platforms to book transportation services as they provide transparency, quick response times, and the flexibility to customize based on specific needs. These platforms have also facilitated the real-time tracking of freight and increased the utilization of truck capacity, reducing costs and enhancing customer satisfaction. Furthermore, the emergence of various digital freight brokerage platforms has streamlined the process of connecting shippers with carriers, leading to more effective and efficient operations within the market.

The growing consumption of goods due to increased purchasing power

 The considerable rise in the consumption of goods, a result of global population growth and increased purchasing power, especially in developing regions, is a significant driver for the market. As populations grow and economies expand, there is a rise in consumer demand for a wide variety of goods. This trend increases the need for efficient and robust logistics networks to ensure the timely delivery of these goods. Moreover, with rising incomes, consumers' purchasing power has significantly increased, driving higher demand for imported and locally produced goods. This increase in consumption and demand necessitates an efficient and reliable haulage system capable of transporting a diverse range of products to different markets. As such, the market is expected to see robust growth in line with increasing global consumption patterns.

Road Haulage Industry Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the global road haulage market report, along with forecasts at the global, regional and country levels for 2024-2032. Our report has categorized the market based on type, vehicle type, and application.

Breakup by Type:

• International Road Haulage
• Domestic Road Haulage
   

Domestic road haulage represents the largest market segment

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the type. This includes international road haulage and domestic road haulage.  According to the report, domestic road haulage represented the largest segment.

The rapid urbanization and growth in domestic commerce are contributing to the increased need for domestic road haulage. Infrastructure developments in road networks within countries are further supporting the demand for domestic road haulage. Additionally, the rise in e-commerce and online retail is propelling the need for reliable and efficient domestic delivery systems.

On the other hand, increasing international trade activities and global supply chain dependencies are driving the need for international road haulage. It plays a pivotal role in ensuring that goods are transported efficiently and timely between nations. Standardization of customs protocols and improved infrastructure, particularly in developing economies, is another factor boosting the growth of this segment. The advent of technology, including GPS tracking and automation, is improving operational efficiency in international haulage systems, fostering market growth.

Breakup by Vehicle Type:

• Light Commercial Vehicles
• Heavy Commercial Vehicles
   

Light commercial vehicles represent the largest market segment

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the vehicle type. This includes light commercial vehicles, and heavy commercial vehicles.  According to the report, light commercial vehicles represented the largest segment.

The growing demand for last-mile deliveries due to a considerable rise in e-commerce is a major driver for the light commercial vehicles segment. Light commercial vehicles are also favored due to their fuel efficiency and maneuverability in urban areas. Furthermore, the growing trend of electric and hybrid light commercial vehicles is driving growth in this segment, responding to environmental concerns and emission regulations.

 On the other hand, expansion in sectors such as construction, mining, and heavy industries necessitates the use of heavy commercial vehicles for transporting heavy equipment and goods. Advancements in vehicle technology enhancing the load-carrying capacity and fuel efficiency of heavy commercial vehicles are driving their demand. Infrastructure development projects in emerging economies are also boosting the growth of the heavy commercial vehicles segment.

Breakup by Application:

• Mining and Construction
• Oil and Gas
• Food and Beverage
• Retail
• Manufacturing
• Healthcare
• Automotive
• Others
   

Food and beverage accounts for the majority of the market share

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the application. This includes mining and construction, oil and gas, food and beverage, retail, manufacturing, healthcare, automotive, and others.  According to the report, food and beverage represented the largest segment.

The increasing demand for fresh and perishable goods necessitates efficient haulage services in the food and beverage industry. The growth in processed food industries and expansion of retail chains are driving the market demand in this sector. The implementation of stringent regulations regarding the safe transportation of food products is also a significant driver in this segment.

On the other hand, the necessity to transport oil and gas products from extraction sites to refineries and distribution centers drives the need for these services in this sector. The development of new extraction sites, especially in remote areas, further escalates the need for effective transportation services. Moreover, the expansion of gas stations and distribution networks worldwide is another factor driving the market in the oil and gas sector.

Additionally, the rise in infrastructural development projects globally requires significant mining and construction activities, driving the demand in these sectors. Technological advancements in equipment have improved operational efficiency and safety in these sectors, further driving demand. The growing need for raw materials due to industrialization is propelling the mining sector, which in turn, increases the need for these services.

Moreover, the growth in consumer spending coupled with the expansion of retail chains globally is driving the market demand in the retail sector. The expansion of e-commerce and the demand for home delivery services are propelling growth in this segment. Furthermore, the necessity for transportation of raw materials to manufacturing units and finished goods to distribution centers is driving the market demand in the manufacturing sector. The growth in manufacturing activities, especially in emerging economies, is a significant driver for this segment.

Besides this, the need to transport medical supplies, equipment, and pharmaceuticals efficiently and safely is driving the market in the healthcare sector. Also, the growth in the home healthcare market and the need for timely delivery of medical supplies to patients' homes are other significant drivers.

Apart from this, the automotive industry relies heavily on road haulage for the transportation of vehicles from manufacturing plants to dealerships. The global expansion of automotive manufacturers and the growth in automobile sales are driving the market demand in this sector.

Breakup by Region:

• North America
  • United States
  • Canada
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • United Kingdom
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Others
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • Australia
  • Indonesia
  • Others
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Others
• Middle East and Africa
   

Asia Pacific exhibits a clear dominance, accounting for the largest road haulage market share

The report has also provided a comprehensive analysis of all the major regional markets, which include North America (the United States and Canada); Europe (Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, and others); Asia Pacific (China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia, Indonesia, and others); Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, and others); and the Middle East and Africa. 

The robust economy and high consumer spending in Asia Pacific are driving the market demand across various sectors. The growth in e-commerce and online retail, particularly in the developed regions, is significantly driving the demand for delivery purposes. The high concentration of manufacturing industries, especially the automotive industry, in Asia Pacific also drives the market. The presence of numerous oil and gas reserves across Asia Pacific is resulting in a higher uptake of road haulage in the extraction, refining, and distribution of these resources.

Infrastructure development and urbanization across the region are driving the need for these services in construction and related industries. The technological advancements and adoption of automation in road haulage operations are improving efficiency and driving the market growth. Furthermore, the robust healthcare industry in Asia Pacific, coupled with the ongoing need for medical supplies amid the COVID-19 pandemic, is driving the road haulage market in this region.

Competitive Landscape:

The key companies are integrating advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), Internet of Things (IoT), and blockchain into their operations to increase efficiency and reduce costs. They are also investing in advanced tracking systems for real-time monitoring of cargo, automated scheduling systems for optimizing routes and deliveries, and advanced fleet management systems to reduce fuel consumption and enhance safety. Many players are also entering into strategic partnerships and collaborations with tech companies to leverage their expertise in digital transformation. With growing concerns over environmental impact, many key players are investing in greener alternatives, such as replacing traditional vehicles with electric or hybrid ones and optimizing routes to reduce fuel consumption. Furthermore, they are expanding their presence in emerging markets where there is increased demand for road haulage services due to economic growth, increased consumption, and burgeoning e-commerce sector.

The report has provided a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the market. Detailed profiles of all major companies have also been provided. Some of the key players in the market include:

• AM Cargo s.r.o.
• Gosselin Group
• Kindersley Transport Ltd. (Siemens Transportation Group Inc.)
• Kuehne + Nagel International AG (Kühne Holding AG)
• LKW WALTER Internationale Transport Organisation AG (Walter Group)
• Manitoulin Transport Inc. (Manitoulin Group of Companies)
• Monarch Transport Limited (Landtran Group)
• Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc.
• SLH Transport Inc (C.A.T. Inc.)
• UK Haulier
• Woodside Logistics Group
   

Road Haulage Market Report Scope:

Key Questions Answered in This Report:

• How has the global road haulage market performed so far, and how will it perform in the coming years?
• What are the drivers, restraints, and opportunities in the global road haulage market?
• What is the impact of each driver, restraint, and opportunity on the global road haulage market?
• What are the key regional markets?
• Which countries represent the most attractive road haulage market?
• What is the breakup of the market based on the type?
• Which is the most attractive type in the road haulage market?
• What is the breakup of the market based on the vehicle type?
• Which is the most attractive vehicle type in the road haulage market?
• What is the breakup of the market based on the application?
• Which is the most attractive application in the road haulage market?
• What is the competitive structure of the global road haulage market?
• Who are the key players/companies in the global road haulage market?

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the road haulage market from 2018-2032.
• The research study provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the global road haulage market.
• The study maps the leading, as well as the fastest-growing, regional markets. It further enables stakeholders to identify the key country-level markets within each region.
• Porter's five forces analysis assist stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the road haulage industry and its attractiveness.
• Competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides an insight into the current positions of key players in the market.